This spring, long awaited amendments to Title IX regulations were released by the U.S Department of Education. These changes need to be implemented by K-12 schools and Universities by August 1st. Title IX professionals and administrators are working diligently to update policies, procedures, student and employee handbooks, and plan and implement training for faculty and staff on the updated regulations this summer. But this isn’t the first time, and it certainly won’t be the last, that schools are engaging in this process. Every four years the presidential election can- and will- directly impact how schools are required to comply with these federal regulations. Knowing that change is inevitable, how can schools provide a consistent and predictable process for students and employees? 

At JT Consulting (JTC), we know that what we do is not always as important as how we do it. We are grateful that there are so many incredible resources out there to help schools figure out what they need to do to be in compliance with the new regulations. We are here to help you navigate how to do this work utilizing a trauma-informed approach and to develop sustainable structures and strategies that can support the school community no matter what changes are on the horizon. Here’s three ways we can do just that:

Faculty and staff training

One of the biggest frustrations we hear from Title IX coordinators and directors is a lack of understanding from their colleagues about how the Title  IX process is carried out. When employees haven’t been adequately trained on the Title IX process and regulations, their misunderstanding can have dire consequences for students. I’ve seen- too many times to count- faculty and staff share damaging misconceptions and frustrations with students that create an impression that the Title IX office cannot be trusted. We can work with your Title IX team to facilitate training that deepens employees’ understanding of the federal regulations and the Title IX process including the typical length of an investigation, what steps the process must include, and the reporting requirements of employees specific to your institution. 

Case Consultation and Support 

Over the years, we have consulted with Title IX staff to offer a victim advocacy perspective, talk through safety implications, and offer confidential support. Investigators, panelists, and coordinators bear witness to the suffering of survivors of gender-based violence and many have their own past experiences of trauma. It can be incredibly impactful to have a consistent space to process the impact of this work and can support employee sustainability and ensure the Title IX process is trauma-informed. 

Communication Strategy 

JTC can work with your team to ensure that your campus community has a clear understanding of the Title IX process, the impact of the new regulations, and on campus and community-based confidential resources. We know how inundated many Title IX offices are with cases; our goal is to increase the visibility of the gender-based violence response and prevention programs currently offered and deepen and expand the understanding of the role and responsibility of the Title IX office. 

Interested in working together? Schedule a call with us to discuss partnering opportunities.